I heard an interview with Paul McCartney on "Fresh Air with Terri Gross" on NPR. He describes the inspiration behind their classic song, "Blackbird". One afternoon, he and John saw a group of young, black women. This was during the Civil Right movement. They realized what a critical time this was for these women. Rather than addressing the topic outright, they chose the symbolism of the blackbird.
I'd always loved that song, and even sang it as a lullaby to my son. After hearing that interview, I fell in love with the song all over again. As a black woman, the song gives me hope, strength, and the inspiration to journey forward "into the light of [the] dark black night."
And I know that each of us has waited for it. Watched for it. Prayed for it. Sacrificed and prepared for it. And I know that each of us has, at some point, avoided the presence of it. That moment. The Moment.
Well, as I get older, it seems to be that every cliche I ever heard is starting to ring more and more true to me. I turned 40 last September, and I feel like: "f*&@ it!" If not know, when? Can I live the rest of my precious time on this planet living for me, or am I going to continue taking my cue externally? I think my good girl has worked her way into obsolescence, is being forced into what feels to her like early retirement, and the blackbird needs to fly.
This blog serves as a journal of the journey. My moment has arrived...
